Biology I Honors
M.A.S.T. High School @ Homestead
Course Description
Instructor: Ms. O. Ajileye
Room: 124
Email: abbyajileye@dadeschools.net
Text: Biology, by Miller and Levine Honors Biology is a year-long introductory course in the life sciences. Study will include brief studies of all the major facets of living organisms-including cell structure and function; a survey of the major kingdoms of organisms; selected topics in human anatomy, physiology, genetics and reproduction; and an introduction to major ecological and evolutionary concepts.
Student Expectations
1. Biology is an introductory course that teaches the building blocks that are necessary for more advanced biological studies. This course requires a significant amount of reading and memorization of key concepts and ideas.
2. It is the student’s responsibility to check the biweekly calendar for assignments.
3. Students will be prepared for class on a daily basis. This includes having read the assigned sections of the book and completed any homework assignments. Students will also bring materials necessary for class, including the textbook; writing materials; and a 3 ring binder containing loose leaf paper, notes, and previous assignments.
4. Students will respect others and their right to learn & obey class rules at all times.
5. Students will be on time and prepared to begin class when the bell rings.
6. Students will turn in assignments on the due date. What are the policies regarding make-up work?It is important that you attend class regularly and take tests and quizzes during the designated class period, since falling behind is the primary cause of difficulty in biology. It is your responsibility to obtain class notes and submit assignments after an absence. All missed work must be made up according to the guidelines printed in the student handbook. .How will I be evaluated?
Grades will be calculated using the following percentages: Tests 40%, Quizzes 15%, Class work 10%, Labs 20%, Homework 15%. Projects & Presentations will have their own Rubrics and grading scale.
v Teaching Techniques:
Lecture, Lab, videos, audio and video tapes, independent reading, independent assignments, group reading, group assignments, research papers/ reports, overhead transparencies, class discussions/ debate and projects
v Grading Procedure:
Tests, quizzes (announced or pop) Notebook checks, Project presentations, homework assignments, class work and participation.
v Required Materials:
3-ring binder, lined notebook paper, dividers, pens, pencils and composition book( for labs)
v Grading Scale:
A=100- 89.5% B=89.4-79.5% C= 79.4-69.5% D=69.4- 60% F= 59% and below
v Make up Work Policy:
Make up work will only be given to those students who have a written official school excuse or those students who have previous arrangements and approval from the teacher. No other exceptions will be considered.
v Late Work Policy:
No assignments or notebooks will be accepted later than the due date otherwise stated by the teacher unless previous approval has been given by the teacher.
v Bathroom Policy:
Students are advised to use the bathroom during passage between classes or on break. Bathroom passes will be given at teacher’s discretion.
v Class Rules and Expectations:
- Enter the classroom quickly and quietly and take your assigned seat.
- Raise your hand and get permission from the teacher before speaking.
- Stay in your assigned seat unless otherwise directed by the teacher.
- You will be assigned a text book. You are responsible for your assigned book. Any damage or lost book will be reported to obligations.
- No sleeping in class. If you are sick, ask for a pass to the clinic/office.
- No eating or drinking is permitted in class.
- The use of any electronic devices is prohibited during class i.e. cell phones, ipods, Mp3 players, CD player etc. They must be OFF & and out of site or they will be taken away and given to your administrator.
- Respect yourself, your teacher and fellow class mates and follow directions at all times